Oahu’s Kid Friendly Activities

Visiting the Gathering Place island of Oahu with the family? If you’re looking to build some lifetime memories with your children, we have some great suggestions for activities and attractions to get you started!

In Honolulu

Waikiki Aquarium

As the oldest aquarium in the United States, the Waikiki Aquarium features programs for every interest related to the aquatic world. Here, your little oceanographer can learn about everything from coral reefs to the Hawaiian Monk seal to seahorses, seadragons, and pipefishes.

Children’s Discovery Center

Catering to the under-7 set, the goal of the Children’s Discovery Center is to help little ones learn about themselves. They do this through both state-of-the-art technology and good, old-fashioned play. The Center has 4 interactive exhibits, each filled with hands-on fun and discovery.

Dolphin Quest Oahu

Ever dreamed of swimming with these intelligent, highly social creatures? Now you can, with several different packages available (one just for kids!) at the Kahala Hotel & Resort

Hawaii Nature Center

Encourage your pint-sized outdoorsman or woman, with a nature hike designed just for them! They will seek out the wild and wonderful world of nature, discovering creatures great and small. Yes, parents are invited, too.

Hanauma Bay

For adventurous young people who are interested in learning about snorkeling, this is the perfect protected spot to do it. You will marvel at the populations of colorful fish and other fascinating marine life.

Honolulu Zoo

Spend a day with the animals, admiring all the creatures great and small, from the smallest toads and birds to giraffes and hippos. It’s a great day for the whole family!

Living Art Marine Center

Specifically designed for kids, to introduce them to the wonders of the sea, from the creatures that inhabit to the entire living ecosystem.

Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

Visitors are shuttled over to Hangar 37 on Ford Island, where they are immersed in a 12-minute movie about the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. After that is a tour including real-life planes that were in Pearl Harbor on that fateful day in 1941. After, the budding fighter pilots can enjoy a simulated flight on a WWII plane.

Wild Tiki Fun Zone

Offers arcade games, laser tag, a sports simulator and plenty of great, family-friendly snacks!

Outside of Honolulu

Polynesian Culture Center

This is a must-do for every family visiting Oahu! There is so much to do here that you may even want to spend more than one day. Travel through time to experience the ancient cultures of six different villages. Take in one of the most popular luau shows on Oahu. That’s just the beginning!

Sea Life Park

Get up close and personal with a dolphin, manta ray, sea lion or sea turtle. Pet a baby shark. Enjoy a show, exhibit or interactive program. Visit with the cockatiels and lovebirds in the aviary. The park also features luaus.

Kualoa Private Nature Reserve

Some adrenalin-pumping fun is waiting for you here! Take a tour through the movie sets of Jurassic Park, Godzilla, Mighty Joe Young and more. Zipline through the trees over the Jurassic Valley. Trip a catamaran tour of Oahu’s windward side and the blue waters of Kaneohe Bay.

Dole Plantation

Kids and adults alike will love it here, with activities such as the Pineapple Express Train Tour for the little ones, the Pineapple Garden Tour and Garden Maze for all ages. Finally, the whole family can enjoy a meal together at the Plantation Grille.

Arcades and Amusement Parks

There are several locations on Oahu to enjoy a video game, air hockey challenge or even a cool dip in a pool. Wherever you’re staying on the island, there’s sure to one not far away.

Shave Ice

Last, but not least, every member of your family must try the iconic Hawaiian treat at least during your time in paradise.